The Alpha Weredragon's Favorite
CHAPTER 96

Lyra

The wind whistled through the trees as I made my way to the training grounds, my steps heavy like I was walking in quicksand. The final Luna trial was fast approaching, and I wavered between giddy excitement and a deep dark feeling of dread. I had come so far, pushed myself to the limits, and proven my worth time and time again. But I knew that the last trial would be the most challenging.

A true test of my strength, resolve, and leadership.

Then there was Ryan and his role in all this. As the Alpha, he had the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. The pack looked to him for guidance, protection, and strength. If he was caught with me... showing favoritism and weakness, there would be a stink even the Moon Goddess couldn't erase.

True, the Luna trials separated us, but they were also the only way we could finally be together.

A necessary evil we both had to endure.

As I neared the clearing, I saw that Killian was already there, waiting for me. He smiled as he saw me approach, but I could see the concern in his eyes.

"Hey, how are you holding up?" Killian asked, his voice laced with genuine concern as I came to stand beside him. His silver eyes searched mine, trying to gauge my emotional state.

I took a deep breath, squaring my shoulders. "I'm okay, I guess," I replied, mustering a small shrug in an attempt to appear nonchalant. "Just trying to stay focused on the task at hand, you know? Can't afford to let my guard down or get distracted."

Killian nodded, understandingly. "That's all you can do, Lyra. You've come so far already, and I have no doubt that you'll do great in the final trial."

I smiled, grateful for his support. "Thanks, Killian. I couldn't have made it this far without you."

We lapsed into silence for a moment, both lost in our thoughts. The weight of the upcoming trials hung heavy in the air between us. Then, Killian turned to me, his expression serious, his brow furrowed with concern.

"Lyra, there's something I need to tell you," he said, shifting his weight from one foot to the other.

"What is it?" I asked, my heart suddenly racing, pounding against my ribcage. A sense of unease crept up my spine. I swear the hair on the back of my neck stood on end.

"I've been doing some research on the final Luna trial," he began, his eyes locked intently on mine. "And I've discovered that it's not just a physical challenge or one of leadership and strategy. The last trial will push you to your limits, forcing you to make difficult decision under immense pressure."

I frowned, trying to process what he was saying. "What do you mean?"

"I mean that you'll be up against not only some of the strongest and most cunning she-wolves in the pack," he explained. "You will also have to face yourself. And you'll need to outmaneuver your emotions if you want to win." "Shit," I muttered under my breath, feeling the weight of Killian's words sink in. "So you're telling me that brute strength alone won't cut it in this final trial?"

Killian shook his head solemnly. "No, it won't. The Luna trial is as much a battle of wits as it is a physical challenge. You'll need to be sharp, adaptable, and always one step ahead."

I ran a hand through my hair, frustrated. "Great. Just great. As if this wasn't already hard enough."

"I know it seems hard... insurmountable even," Killian said, placing a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "But I have faith in you, Lyra. Your smart... tough and you know what is at stake. You can do this. Look how far you've come." I looked up at him, searching his eyes for any hint of doubt. "You really think so?"

He nodded firmly. "I do. But it won't be easy. You'll need to stay in your head... trust your instincts in the heat of the moment."

I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the challenge ahead. "Okay. I'm ready to do whatever it takes. Where do we start?"

***

"Alright, Lyra," Killian said, turning to face me. He had set up some obstacles that I had to get over. He was right. It didn't look easy at all. "Are you ready?"

I nodded, taking a deep breath. "I'm ready."

Killian led me to a series of obstacles set up on the training grounds. "First, we'll work on your agility and speed. I want you to complete this obstacle course as quickly as possible."

I studied the course, noting the various challenges that lay ahead. There were walls to climb, ropes to swing across, and tunnels to crawl through. It looked daunting, but I was determined to conquer it. "Go!" Killian called out, and I took off running.

I tackled the first wall, using my arms and legs to pull myself up and over. I landed on the other side with a thump, then sprinted towards the ropes. I grabbed hold of one and swung across, letting go at just the right moment to land on a platform.

Next came the tunnels. I dropped to my hands and knees and crawled through the narrow passage, my heart racing as I emerged on the other side. I could hear Killian's voice, urging me on as I tackled the rest of the course. Finally, I reached the end, panting and sweating. I looked up at Killian, who was watching me with a proud smile.

"Excellent work, Lyra," he said. "Now let's move on to the next challenge."

He led me to a clearing where several targets were set up. "This is a test of your accuracy and focus. I want you to hit each target with a throwing knife."

I picked up one of the knives, feeling its weight in my hand. I took aim and threw it, watching as it sailed through the air and hit the target dead center. "Nice shot," Killian said. "Now try the next one."

I moved on to the next target, focusing all my energy on hitting it. One by one, I knocked down each target, feeling a sense of satisfaction with each successful throw. "Great job," Killian said, clapping me on the back. "Now for the final challenge. I want you to spar with me."

I raised an eyebrow, surprised. "You want to fight me?"

Killian chuckled. "Not exactly. This is a test of your strategy and adaptability. I'll be using different fighting styles, and you'll need to adjust your approach accordingly."

I nodded, understanding the challenge. We faced off, and Killian attacked first, using quick, agile movements. I countered with my own attacks, trying to anticipate his next move.

As the sparring match continued, Killian switched up his fighting style, forcing me to adapt and think on my feet. It was exhausting, both physically and mentally, but I refused to give up. Finally, Killian called a halt to the match. "That's enough for today," he said, panting. "You did well, Lyra."

I smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks, Killian. I couldn't have done it without you."

He clapped me on the shoulder. "Just do your best and stay true to yourself. You're already a winner if you do those two things."